1. Join a green gym
Although there are set warm-up and cool-down routines in a "green gym", there are no gym-like exercises. You get fit by helping to conserve the landscape (usually in a country park or wildlife sanctuary) – cutting back undergrowth, making paths, and building dry-stone walls, hedging or planting trees, with all the walking, carrying, and digging such tasks involve. The activities change with the seasons and as you work, you learn about biodiversity and habitat, and the history of the landscape or species you're helping to conserve. The biggest buzz is not the noticeable effects on body and mind or the close friendships forged, but the tangible results on the landscape.
2. Country garden exercise
The grounds of many country houses or gardens feature trails suited to different levels of fitness and ability, from wheelchair tracks and one-mile beginner walks to high-energy hill climbs. Some doctors may be able to enrol you on a leisure-walking scheme that offers free entry and a guide. Walk with the seasons and savour the differences as the months roll by.
3. Seasonal fun
Plan walks that change with the seasons – find circular trails that take in spring blossom, bluebell woods, displays of autumn foliage, and early morning winter frosting.
Page 1 of 4 - Eager to explore? Go for a walk outside, or try birdwatching. Find more tips for staying in shape on page 2.
Excerpted from 1,001 Ways to Get in Shape, copyright 2009 by Susannah Marriott. Used by permission of Dorling Kindersley. All Rights Reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced except with permission in writing from the publisher.
